Behold, now is a very acceptable time; 
behold, now is the day of salvation.  (2 Cor 5:20-6:2)

Lent is a holy season rich in tradition and history. In the early Church, Lent was the time for the final preparation of catechumens (those who have answered the call of the Holy Spirit to become fully initiated Catholic Christians) for baptism at Easter, a custom that has been restored in our day as part of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Lent later became a time for public penance for serious sinners, who reconciled themselves to the Church through prayer, fasting, and rituals such as the imposition of ashes. In our modern era, Lent is a season of prayer and repentance for all Christians in preparation for the celebration of the Easter mysteries.

The Catholic Church begins the holy season of Lent with Ash Wednesday, a day that calls us to deep prayer and repentance. These liturgies will include the Distribution of Ashes, an ancient tradition that reminds us of our need to turn away from sin. All are welcome to come forward and receive ashes, whether or not you are Catholic.

Lent is a blessed opportunity for us to deepen our relationship with God. Traditionally, Catholics do this by such practices as daily Mass, daily Rosary, self-denial (“giving something up” to help us stay focused on God), service to the community, and fasting. Other ideas include increased “quality time” with family, going on a Retreat or Day of Recollection, reading the Bible, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) – all good practices that will help lead us closer to God.